Prior to Gorgas's arrival in Panama in 1904, yellow fever and malaria were rampant in the tropical region, making it extremely dangerous for workers to live and work in the Canal Zone. These diseases were transmitted by mosquitoes that thrived in the warm, humid climate. Gorgas understood that the key to controlling yellow fever and malaria was to eliminate the mosquitoes that carried them.
He implemented several measures to combat the mosquito population:
1. Mosquito Control: Gorgas initiated an aggressive mosquito control program that involved draining stagnant water sources, clearing dense vegetation, spraying insecticides, and using oil to suffocate mosquito larvae.
2. Sanitation Improvements: Gorgas improved the overall sanitation of the Canal Zone by introducing clean water sources, waste disposal systems, and rigorous hygiene practices.
3. Quarantine Measures: He enforced strict quarantine measures to prevent the introduction of new cases of yellow fever and malaria from outside sources.
4. Education: Gorgas emphasized the importance of education to raise awareness about mosquito-borne diseases and encourage the public to take preventive measures.
5. Treatment: Gorgas established hospitals and clinics to provide treatment for those who contracted yellow fever or malaria, improving the survival rates of those infected.
As a result of Gorgas's efforts, yellow fever was virtually eliminated from the Canal Zone by the end of 1905, and malaria cases were significantly reduced. These successes greatly improved the working conditions and living standards of the laborers and played a crucial role in the successful completion of the Panama Canal.
